Defending Federal Child Exploitation Charges under 18 U.S.C. § 2422(b)
Federal prosecutors aggressively pursue offenses involving the sexual exploitation of minors, and one of the most serious statutes in this area is 18 U.S.C. § 2422(b). This crime carries extremely severe penalties—including potential decades in prison—and defending against it requires an experienced federal criminal defense attorney who understands both the nuances of the law and the stakes involved.
18 U.S.C. § 2422(b): Online Enticement of a Minor
18 U.S.C. § 2422(b) prohibits using any means of interstate or foreign commerce—such as the internet, social media, or text messaging—to knowingly persuade, induce, entice, or coerce a minor to engage in sexual activity that would be illegal under federal or state law, or to attempt to do so.
Elements of the offense include:
- The defendant used a means of interstate commerce (such as the internet or a phone);
- The defendant knowingly persuaded, induced, enticed, or coerced a person under 18 to engage in sexual activity (or attempted to do so); and
- The sexual activity, if it had occurred, would constitute a criminal offense under federal or state law.
Penalties:
A conviction carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and up to life imprisonment. Even an attempted enticement—where no actual meeting or sexual activity occurs—can result in the same penalties as a completed offense. Defendants also face mandatory registration as sex offenders and years of supervised release.
Why These Charges Are So Complex and Dangerous
Federal investigations into alleged violations of § 2422(b) often involve undercover operations, sting communications, and digital evidence collected by the FBI, Homeland Security Investigations, or local cybercrime task forces. These cases can turn on complex questions about intent, identity, and entrapment, and sometimes involve constitutional defenses relating to illegal searches, overbroad warrants, or coercive interrogation tactics.
Given the potential for misunderstanding online communications and the devastating consequences of a conviction, it is absolutely critical to retain a skilled and aggressive defense attorney at the earliest possible stage.
Why Matthew Galluzzo Is an Outstanding Choice for Federal Defense
Matthew Galluzzo is a highly experienced federal criminal defense attorney who regularly represents clients charged with serious federal offenses in the District of Connecticut, the Southern District of New York (SDNY), the Eastern District of New York (EDNY), and the District of New Jersey.
A former Manhattan sex crimes prosecutor, Mr. Galluzzo understands how federal agents and U.S. Attorneys build these sorts of cases, and he uses that insider knowledge to identify weaknesses in the government’s evidence, challenge unconstitutional searches or seizures, and negotiate favorable outcomes for his clients.
He has successfully defended individuals accused of sex crimes, cyber-related offenses, and other high-stakes federal charges across the region. His background in both trial advocacy and complex federal litigation makes him uniquely equipped to handle cases involving digital evidence, forensic computer analysis, and expert testimony. He has earned excellent results for clients in difficult situations, including acquittals at trial on sex-related charges in both state and federal court.
He also understands how best to present mitigating evidence to prosecutors and courts to earn leniency or more favorable plea bargain offers. He works with social workers and psychiatrists to understand his clients and uncover aspects of their background that can help explain their problems. Moreover, Mr. Galluzzo is known for his discreet, strategic, and compassionate approach—vital qualities for clients facing the most serious accusations imaginable. He fights tirelessly to protect his clients’ rights, reputations, and futures.
If you or a loved one are under investigation or facing federal charges under 18 U.S.C. § 2422(b), contact Matthew Galluzzo immediately for a confidential consultation. Early intervention by an experienced defense attorney can make all the difference in the outcome of your case